You can’t believe your favorite artist is coming to
Ruoff Music Center. You’ve marked your calendar, called your friends, and thought about all of the songs you want to hear. The excitement is building and you can hardly wait for the day to come. But before the band hits the stage, take a few moments to read these tips on how you can have the perfect night at Ruoff Music Center. A little planning goes a long way to ensuring your experience is a pleasant one.
Get Your Tickets From Only Indy Tickets
One of the most popular amphitheaters in the country, Ruoff Music Center has space for over 20,000 spectators and welcomes hundreds of thousands of guests each year. If you’re bummed out that those prime pavilion tickets for Stevie Nicks or Chris Stapleton have sold out, don’t fret. You can still get amazing seats from the local leaders at Only Indy Tickets. You’ll find a range of options at various price points for this amazing venue.
Get In Line Early And Be Patient
Let’s start with an important update. You currently don’t have to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain entry into Ruoff Music Center. But please note, this is subject to change. You’re well-advised to double-check the latest information prior to heading out for your night of fun. Even without this extra step at the gate, it can still take some time to get through. If you don’t want to miss any part of the show, get in line early and be patient with the venue staff and your fellow concert goers. You should also consider the next tip for facilitating your entry into the grounds.
What Can You Bring to Ruoff Music Center?
Avoid unnecessary delays and the ire of other attendees by knowing exactly what you can and cannot bring into Ruoff Music Center. The good news is that you are allowed to bring some food and water through the gates but there are some stipulations.
What to bring:
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A clear bag no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”. Note, that you can also bring a small, hand-sized clutch bag no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”. The clutch doesn’t have to be clear.
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Food is contained in a clear, 1-gallon, resealable storage bag.
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Up to 1 liter of water within a factory-sealed bottle. You can also bring empty, reusable bottles to fill up.
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Lawn chairs are allowed but they must be no more than 9” off the ground so you don’t block the views of folks around you.
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Blankets and tarps.
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Non-aerosol bug spray and sunscreen.
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Binoculars.
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Small digital or disposable cameras are generally allowed but not professional types with detachable lenses.
What not to bring:
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Alcohol and illegal drugs.
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Weapons.
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Coolers - regardless of size.
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Backpacks and any non-clear bags.
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Glass containers or cans.
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Laser pointers.
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Pets (service animals are allowed)
Keep in mind, that policies may vary per show so check your specific event before going. You should be notified via email if entry guidelines change but it’s best to be proactive to avoid surprises. If you’re not bringing a bag, you can get in quicker through the No Bag Express Lanes.
Mobile Tickets And Cashless Payment Only
The days of paper tickets and paying for refreshments with cash is just about over. You should expect to use mobile tickets and credit or debit cards for purchases. If you don’t already have the Live Nation app on your phone, you’ll find instructions when purchasing your tickets. Just make sure your tickets, including those purchased through Only Indy Tickets, are downloaded and viewable on your phone before you leave. Tickets will not be emailed or available to print. If the unthinkable happens and your phone dies when you get to Ruoff Music Center, go to the box office for assistance. You will need a valid photo ID.
Consider Paying Extra For Premier Or VIP Parking
Maybe your favorite band is playing on a weeknight and you have to work the next day. You really don’t want to sit in those long lines to exit the parking lot. Instead of skipping the encore and running to your car to avoid the traffic, you might consider one of the parking upgrades. You’ll find these options when purchasing your tickets although there is no guarantee they’ll still be available.
Premier Parking is found on both sides of Ruoff Music Center and is accessible through Gates 1, 2, and 4. You will have your own dedicated exit to facilitate a smooth departure. This option typically costs around $50 but is subject to change. If you want a better, albeit higher-priced upgrade, with expedited entry and exit, choose VIP Parking. Pricing is generally at $125. The lot is found off 146th Street between Bergen Blvd. and Boden Rd. There are limited spots available and you will need to show your mobile ticket when entering.